2026 WSOP Kicks Off with Instruction Card Being Dealt on the Flop

In the 967th episode of the PokerNews Podcast, which is sponsored by FanDuel Poker, Chad Holloway, Mike Holtz, and Ben Ludlow are at Level 9 Studio in Las Vegas for the first official episode of the 2026 World Series of Poker (WSOP), which officially got underway with a rather strange hand in which an instruction card found its way onto the flop.

It was a funny start to the summer, which also kicked off with some smaller numbers across town, where the Wynn had an overlay. Is it a sign of things to come in Las Vegas, which has become increasingly more expensive? Speaking of the WSOP getting underway, Michael "The Grinder" Mizrachi gave the ceremonial "Shuffle up and deal," while Martin Kabrhel is already up to his old antics.

The crew then made a bet on their favorite 25K Fantasy teams. The Lodge reopened in Texas, and Craig Welko claimed RGPS Player of the Year honors. Finally, Ray Kondler of Kondler & Associates came into the studio to share the latest on the current poker tax situation, while Robbie Strazynski dropped by to talk about his upcoming Mixed Game Festival XIV at Bellagio.

A new PokerNews Podcast drops three times a week during the 2026 WSOP! You can expect a new episode every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 8a PT / 11a ET / 4p UK time. Remember to subscribe to our YouTube channel so you do not miss an episode!

Time Stamps
*Time Topic*
00:00 | Welcome to the show
01:10 | Instruction card dealt on the flop
02:25 | Low numbers on first day
04:36 | Playing with Nikki Limo
07:05 | Price of Las Vegas
11:23 | Grinder gives "Shuffle Up & Deal"
12:27 | Martin Kabrhel back at it
16:00 | Favorite $25K Fantasy Teams
19:00 | Ray Kondler on poker taxes
28:00 | The Lodge reopens in Texas
28:58 | Craig Welko wins RGPS POY
30:07 | Robbie Strazynski talks Mixed Game Festival XIV